The global rigid transparent plastics market is expected to register a
CAGR of around 6% during 2018-2023 (the forecast period). Asia-Pacific
accounted for the largest market in 2017. Asia-Pacific is also expected
to register the fastest growth during the forecast period.

The rigid transparent plastics market is driven by its easy-to-handle,
durable, and lightweight characteristics. These are widely employed in
the food & beverage industry for manufacturing packaging covers or
materials. Growth in the food & beverage industry has a direct impact on
the consumption of rigid transparent plastics for packaging. Rigid
plastic packaging accounted for more than 15% share of usage in the food
& beverages industry. Many developed countries are shifting to packaging
covers made from clear plastics; primarily, polypropylene and
polystyrene. The demand for rigid transparent plastics for the packing
of food & beverages is estimated to expand at a significant rate during
the forecast period.

The packaging industry was the largest consumer of rigid transparent
plastics in 2015. Increasing food packaging activities are estimated to
boost the demand for rigid transparent plastics; primarily
polycarbonate, polypropylene, and polystyrene across the globe. The
packaging industry is estimated to grow at a faster pace in regions,
such as Asia-Pacific and North America. The growing demand for
lightweight packaging with long durability is one of the key factors
boosting the demand for rigid transparent plastics in the packaging
industry.

Key Developments in the Market

February 2018: Plaskolite, North America's largest manufacturer of
acrylic sheet products, announced that it will acquire continuous cast
acrylic sheet business of Lucite International.

July 2017: Trinseo announced that it has completed the acquisition of
API (Applicazioni Plastiche Industriali SpA).